Sperm cell
Sperm Cell
A sperm cell (pronounced: /spɜːrm sɛl/), also known as a spermatozoon (plural: spermatozoa), is a male reproductive cell that is produced in the testicles and is released by the male during ejaculation.
Etymology
The term "sperm" is derived from the Greek word "sperma" meaning "seed". The term "cell" comes from the Latin "cella", meaning "small room".
Function
The primary function of a sperm cell is to fertilize the female ovum (egg) during sexual reproduction. Each sperm cell contains half of the genetic information needed to create a new organism, with the other half provided by the ovum.
Structure
A sperm cell is composed of a head, a midpiece, and a tail. The head contains the nucleus, which holds the genetic material. The midpiece contains mitochondria that provide energy for the sperm cell. The tail, or flagellum, propels the sperm cell towards the ovum.
Related Terms
- Spermatogenesis: The process by which sperm cells are produced.
- Semen: The fluid that carries sperm cells during ejaculation.
- Fertilization: The process by which a sperm cell and an ovum combine to form a new organism.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sperm cell
- Wikipedia's article - Sperm cell
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